By Stacy Hinojosa
Contrary to posted signs, the Cougareat is not accepting debit cards at its venues. However, they are now accepting credit cards and some debit cards.
?We do not accept debit cards,? said Dean Wright, Director of Dining Services. ?We accept signature cards, meal plans and credit cards.?
The Cougareat, which also welcomes cash, underwent its most drastic change two weeks ago when new machines were installed to speed up transactions and permit the use of credit cards.
?That, by far, was the number one request of students over the past four years,? Wright said. ?It is a major financial commitment on our part and we?re very excited about it.?
Neil Cardon, manager of the Cougareat, said credit card capabilities have been a valuable asset that has pleased BYU students. However, there are no plans to include debit cards because university policy directs that only credit cards can be accepted.
Debit cards that are endorsed by a major credit card company will be approved.
?I plan to use my debit card because it?s easier than cash and it?s quicker,? said Emily Haycock, 20, from Danville, Calif. ?Maybe with the use of credit cards, the line will go faster.?
Cougareat managers disagree.
?It slows the line down because we have to wait for the receipt to print,? Cardon said. ?But it has increased customer satisfaction.?
The Cougareat is increasing services in other areas as well.
Cardon said the Grab & Go area has been expanded and a baked potato has been added to the menu.
?We are continuing to focus on improving our customer service, but we are not changing any of the venues this fall,? said Wright.
As for the signs in the Cougareat that say they accept debit cards, ?I guess they were misprinted,? Cardon said.